What mysteries are you reading at the moment? Old thread Showing 1,251-1,300 of 4,475

[Betsy]

Have just finished my third Dr. Priestley book by John Rhode. The #2 book was quite tedious since Dr. Priestley is in it from p. 1. In other books he is only in them about half the time. He reminds me of a great character from the movie, "The Wrong Box" whose brother refers to him as a 'pedantic, old poop'. Fortunately, the later books are much better.

[Carolien]

Susan wrote: "I think I nominated, "Knock, Murderer, Knock," a while back, Carolien and I still haven't read it. I remember thinking it looked good."

It's a really nice book, Susan. Very plot driven.

[Susan]

I must get to it, Carolien.

I just finished the wonderful Spook Street and have started Sympathy for the Devil. Both are series books.

[Judy]

I've just started our next Miss Marple book, Sleeping Murder and am finding it very exciting so far! I also have Crossword Mystery, the third Bobby Owen mystery byE.R. Punshon, lined up next...

[Lady Clementina]

Judy wrote: "I've just started our next Miss Marple book, Sleeping Murder and am finding it very exciting so far! I also have Crossword Mystery, the third Bobby Owen mystery by[auth..."

I was just going to start the Marple but decided to defer it a bit because I don't want to forget it before discussion time. Ditto for Inspector Grant.

[Martha]

I just finished reading Ngaio Marsh's last book, Light Thickens. It was quite good for perhaps two thirds of the book, but became rather clumsy and jumbled when Alleyn began solving the murder. Too bad: I have loved reading the entire body of Marsh's 32 Alleyn books since I started the series back in November of 2015. She is probably my favorite GA author next to Christie.

And now, whom shall I start on next?

[Susan]

I have only read the first couple of books, Martha, and keep meaning to read them all. At least there are a vast number of authors to choose from :)

[John]

Martha - I, likewise have read and re-read all the NgaioM books. I see you have only read one (early and weak) Allingham's Campion book. They are much better than that one. And the rest of Edmund Crispin?

Apart from Michael Innes, my favourites are Georges Simenon's Maigret books. Just magnificent studies in character and place, plotting and denouements.

[Susan]

With Campion I read an early one, and one much later one, which I really couldn't follow. I know so many readers who love them, that I want to give them another try, but I do need to read a series in order.

[Leslie]

I just finished King Solomon's Carpet by Barbara Vine (aka Ruth Rendell). Billed as a psychological thriller, I found it to be mostly lacking in thrills & I found the ending disappointing. I recommend it only to those people who like character studies in which nothing much happens...

I have not had good luck with Barbara Vine & have not tried any of the Wexford books Rendell wrote under her own name. Does anyone know if they are similar in writing style?

[Daniele]

Here is an article that I came across today.
http://lithub.com/30-essential-crime-...

[Jill]

Daniele wrote: "Here is an article that I came across today.
http://lithub.com/30-essential-crime-..."

That was interesting Daniele. Some of the later authors I have not read but there are some of my favourites in there

[Susan]

Interesting to see our current read, Grey Mask, in there.

[Judy]

Interesting list, thanks Daniele! I think Ngaio Marsh is a glaring omission as comments on the article point out. Lots I haven’t read in the list!

[Judy]

I meant to add, interesting to see from this that Gladys Mitchell created Mrs Bradley in 1928, around the same time as Miss Silver and Miss Marple, although she is a lot more glamorous I believe!

[Susan]

We need to read and compare. I think I have read one, but a long time ago.

[Sandhya]

Hi Peeps, I am just done with "Little girl lost" by Carol Wyer. It's my first novel that I have read by her and think it's a good new day read of a female detective and psychotic.

I am thinking of joining this groups book challenge and was wondering if anyone could offer a feedback: is it a fast-paced, action-filled book?

[Susan]

Hi Sandhya. I am not sure that any Golden Age fiction can necessarily be described as 'action packed' to be honest. I love modern and GA crime, but certainly most of the books we read are set between the Wars and are more concerned with the puzzle of the plot than anything else. Have you read any crime novels from that era before?

[Gary]

Currently reading Murder Takes Center Stage by Tracy D. Comstock and Leave No Stone Unturned by Jeanne Glidewell Both would be considered cozies.

[Jan C]

Not sure if I started the second Gladys Mitchell yet, but I did read the first. I liked it. But it is another on of those taking place at a house party.

[Judy]

Looks as if it was a good idea to refuse all house party invitations, judging by the number of murders at them!

[Susan]

Yes, there was danger lurking between the games of croquet and the cucumber sandwiches for sure.... Although I have never thought many of those weekenders were really as innocent as they seemed. So often, they seem to have been an excuse for people to have pretty open affairs, political talks held under the radar, or other reasons. Even in "The Attenbury Emeralds," when the police are interviewing the guests, it is fairly clear that nobody was in the correct bedroom!

[Sandy]

I have started Mycroft Holmes and so far it is quick and enjoyable read, perhaps more adventure than mystery. It is fun anticipating how this young, athletic, and very much in love, man is going to become the Mycroft we know from Conan Doyle.

[Jan C]

Sandy wrote: "I have started Mycroft Holmes and so far it is quick and enjoyable read, perhaps more adventure than mystery. It is fun anticipating how this young, athletic, and very much in love,..."

I have that. Not sure if I have started yet or not.

[Judy]

I'm reading the rediscovered Rogues' Holiday by Maxwell March, which was a pseudonym for one of the Golden Age greats, Margery Allingham. Thanks again to Miss M for pointing out that this is currently on special offer on Kindle.

I'm enjoying it so far, and I like the detective, Inspector David Blest, who has some of Albert Campion's languid charm, but it doesn't really seem to be a mystery thus far and the portrayal of some of the "rogues" staying at a hotel is distinctly OTT!

[Judy]

Leslie wrote: "I just finished King Solomon's Carpet by Barbara Vine (aka Ruth Rendell). Billed as a psychological thriller, I found it to be mostly lacking in thrills & I found the ending disappo..."

I really liked a couple of the early Barbara Vines, A Dark-Adapted Eye and A Fatal Inversion - I also read at least a couple more but those are the ones that stick in my mind. Not sure if I ever tried King Solomon's Carpet and I probably won't be rushing to do so now!

I haven't tried the Wexford novels but did love the TV series made from them, starring George Baker - I got the impression from those that they are more traditional mysteries, set in Cornwall. I'd be interested to try them.

[Judy]

Jan C wrote: "Sandy wrote: "I have started Mycroft Holmes and so far it is quick and enjoyable read, perhaps more adventure than mystery. It is fun anticipating how this young, athletic, and very..."

Interesting to hear that there's a book about Mycroft - must admit I've never really liked the character in the original stories, and get a bit fed up with how much he features in the Sherlock TV series! Your description makes the book sound quite intriguing though, Sandy.

[Leslie]

Judy wrote: "I haven't tried the Wexford novels but did love the TV series made from them, starring George Baker - I got the impression from those that they are more traditional mysteries, set in Cornwall. I'd be interested to try them. ."

Thanks Judy - that sounds more appealing to me. I will keep them in my "to-try" category.

[Sandy]

Re Mycroft Holmes, the character:
I am indifferent to him in the original stories, but he appears regularly in the Mary Russell / Sherlock Holmes series and treats Mary so nicely that I am now quite partial to him. I really like that series, first book is The Beekeeper's Apprentice

Re Mycroft Holmes, the book:
The reason I have this book that a famous ex-basketball player is co-author and my boy friend insisted I, or he, take advantage of a kindle deal. It's different; he is now in Trinidad.

[Jan C]

Sandy wrote: "Re Mycroft Holmes, the character:
I am indifferent to him in the original stories, but he appears regularly in the Mary Russell / Sherlock Holmes series and treats Mary so nicely that I am now quit..."

I also got it because of who wrote it. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar always seemed very bright to me.

[Lady Clementina]

Sleeping Murder- I see the pickled shrimps are here too.

[Carolien]

I've just completed Recipes for Love and Murder which was great fun. It's described as a cozy mystery, but has more substance than most and tackles domestic abuse quite specifically. It's set in a small town called Ladismith (named after Lady Juana Smith for those who read The Spanish Bride by Georgette Heyer) in what is known as the Klein Karoo which is a semi-arid stretch in the middle of South Africa (mainly known for mutton, dinosaur fossils and the site of the soon-to-be largest telescope in the world).

Tannie (a courtesy title for older women used in Afrikaans) Maria is the town's agony aunt, dispensing her advice accompanied by suitable recipes in the local newspaper. Soon a woman who had written to her for advice with regards to her abusive husband is found dead and the three reporters set out to find the murderer.

There's a wonderful cast of supporting characters and Detective Inspector Henk Kannemeyer does not appreciate the assistance provided by the ladies.

It's a lovely read and I highly recommend it if you enjoy Alexander McCall Smith or Martin Walker or Beate Boeker. The chocolate cake recipe is wonderful - I had the neighbourhood kids swooning over it yesterday afternoon.

[Sandy]

Carolien wrote: "I've just completed Recipes for Love and Murder which was great fun. It's described as a cozy mystery, but has more substance than most and tackles domestic abuse quite specifically..."

I've had that loaded onto my ipod for a ling time; guess I should move it up the list. I feel that the 'cozy' genre needs subdivision. There are many that I find quite satisfying. Of course, the genre may be sub-divided by aficionados. Without knowing which I might like I avoid the genre as it seems overwhelmed by tea shops. I like McCall Smith and Walker, haven't heard of Boeker.

[Carolien]

The audio is read by Sandra Prinsloo who is one of South Africa's top actresses so it should be good.

[Judy]

Carolien and Sandy, you've just inspired me to make a thread asking for good cosy mystery recommendations!

https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...

[Judy]

I'm now about halfway through the rediscovered Allingham book written under a pseudonym, Rogues' Holiday, and am not over-impressed to be honest - it has its moments but so far isn't up there with the Campion books!

I'm also reading The Siamese Twin Mystery by Ellery Queen, my first by this author, which has a very exciting start but has now gone off the boil somewhat.

[Ellen]

I just finished reading In This Grave HourbyJacqueline Winspear. It was a real page turner for me but then the ending didn't quite satisfy me. The motivation of the murderer was not strong enough to make it believable to me.

[Sandy]

Ellen wrote: "I just finished reading In This Grave HourbyJacqueline Winspear. It was a real page turner for me but then the ending didn't quite satisfy me. The motivation of the mu..."

I'm on the library waiting list, and looking forward revisiting Maisie.

[Joanne]

I'm reading A Useful Woman by Darcie Wilde, recommended by someone in this group I think (and thank you very much!). I'm enjoying it a lot, especially the plot surprises and the variety of characters. (Not done yet.) Also just started an audiobook of Rendell's The Babes in the Wood; I expect soon to be addicted as I always am to her books. :)

[Sandy]

Joanne wrote: "I'm reading A Useful Woman by Darcie Wilde, recommended by someone in this group I think (and thank you very much!). I'm enjoying it a lot, especially the plot surp..."

I've addedA Useful Woman to my ever growing TBR. Before joining GR I had such a nice, short manageable list. Not a bad problem, of course.

[Judy]

I've now finished The Siamese Twin Mystery by Ellery Queen and really thought it was pretty bad overall. Can't say why without veering into spoilers, but I now gather from looking at Goodreads reviews that it is not regarded as one of the best and some fans of the series seem to hate it!

Looks as if I made a mistake in just picking up the one my library had on Kindle. :( If I try another Queen book I'll make sure it is supposed to be one of the best.

I've also finished a psychological thriller I read for my European crime challenge, The Reunion by Simone van der Vlugt which is set in the Netherlands - I thought this was beautifully written and almost impossible to put down, and I liked the characters, but I had a problem with an aspect of the plot, so knocked off a star. I would try more by this author, anyway.

[Susan]

I recently started The Killer On The Wall, by an author I haven't read before.

[Judy]

Ellen wrote: "I just finished reading In This Grave HourbyJacqueline Winspear. It was a real page turner for me but then the ending didn't quite satisfy me. The motivation of the mu..."

I sympathise, Ellen - it's such a pain when the ending doesn't live up to the rest of the book!

[Fred]

Judy wrote: "I've now finished The Siamese Twin Mystery by Ellery Queen and really thought it was pretty bad overall. Can't say why without veering into spoilers, but I now gather fr..."

I remember reading that book a long time ago. I recently read "Calamity Town" which was a transition book in the series. Unfortunately I did not like it as much as earlier books. The focus was on character more than mystery and it seemed to drag on and felt padded. I also figured out who did it which was a surprise to me and a disappointment. I liked "Double, Double" and which is from the 50's but the 1930's books are generally more pure mystery. To be honest with you, even though I loved these books as a teen and early 20's, I don't think the writing has stood up to the test of time. "Cat of Many Tails" is also a good one. I believe that the basis of a t.v. movie that starred Peter Lawford as Ellery Queen. Many of my golden age books are in the attic. I am going to get them out this summer and go through and try and re-read them to see if my opinion changes, especially on Queen.

[Lady Clementina]

A Shilling for Candles

[Jan C]

The Crow Trap by Ann Cleeves. I received this as a giveaway from Goodreads. It is a little slow going because I keep having to Google birds and plants that I am not at all familiar with.

[Gary]

Fred wrote: "Judy wrote: "I've now finished The Siamese Twin Mystery by Ellery Queen and really thought it was pretty bad overall. Can't say why without veering into spoilers, but I ..."

Lawford played Queen and Harry Morgan, aka Detective Bill Gannon on Dragnet and Col. Potter on MASH, played Ellery's Uncle Inspector Queen. They changed the relationship between the 2 because there was only about 7 years difference between the 2 actors real ages.

[Carolien]

Jan C wrote: "The Crow Trap by Ann Cleeves. I received this as a giveaway from Goodreads. It is a little slow going because I keep having to Google birds and plants that I am not at a..."

I enjoyed this one. I must get on with the series.

[Judy]

Fred wrote: "To be honest with you, even though I loved these books as a teen and early 20's, I don't think the writing has stood up to the test of time.

Thanks very much for your thoughts on Ellery Queen books, Fred. On the writing style, after seeing this author mentioned a few times by American members of the group, I suppose I was expecting something of the standard of Rex Stout, Raymond Chandler or Dashiell Hammett, and the book I read really wasn't on that level.

I couldn't say it was badly written, but there weren't many one-liners that I stopped to read several times over just because they were so great, as there are with all those writers. Also the characters weren't very convincing and although the plot was exciting I had some problems with it. Anyway, if I try another one I will look at reviews first to check it is one of the better books in the series!

[Sandy]

Jan C wrote: "The Crow Trap by Ann Cleeves. I received this as a giveaway from Goodreads. It is a little slow going because I keep having to Google birds and plants that I am not at a..."

A TV series (probably from the BBC) based on these books is about to be broadcast on my local public TV station in the US. I prefer to read before watching, but will have no time to do that. Has anyone done both? I'm hoping that watching will not ruin the books if I decide to read them later.